Lessons from America’s astonishing economic record

As a European I have a feeling this is only the beginning.

> The flexibility of the labour market helps employment adapt to shifting patterns of demand. Already many of the workers in America who were laid off from Alphabet and other tech firms at the start of the year are applying their sought-after skills elsewhere, or setting up their own businesses. In continental Europe, by contrast, tech firms are still negotiating lay-offs, and may think twice about hiring there in future.

This is the most interesting point made to me. Might change my own opinion a bit on what rights best serve workers. I can see how ripping the band-aid off is better for both parties, even though it stings, vs letting layoffs drag out over months and wasting everyone's time and energy.

Would have been nice to see some sources cited here though.

How would Europe even compete with America in the long run. America just has so many advantages (massive influx of talented workers, one country, better equiped with natural resources, the supremacy of the dolllar). There are many other reasons some of which might not seem clear cut. The average American or European life requires an economy which is on average much better than the average for the world. If you do not have comparative advantage in creating valuable things compared to the rest of the world, it is hard to see why the living standards will keep up.

The Americans might have their own problems, but they keep coming up with innovative products several of which which will be massive value producers for them. All the most valuable companies of the world are in US. What will the EU's comparative advantage be? Yes valued companies is not everything and quality of life median matters but in the long run what will the EU have an advantage at (Not just America but even Asia/ Africa).

No idea, but as an American who moved to Europe it's crazy how much ambition is casually discouraged ("the notions on him!") and investors are chickenshit scaredycats offering tiny numbers. Pathetic pay too.

But I still live in Europe because I prefer well designed cities and everyone (mostly) having ample vacation time.